The term “digital nomad” was coined in 1997 to describe individuals who work remotely while frequently travelling. This lifestyle has gained significant traction recently, with studies indicating a remarkable 131% increase (1) in remote workers between 2019 and 2022. By 2023, nearly 40 million (2) digital nomads were navigating the globe, blending work and adventure.
At Modulex, we support this lifestyle through our TeamMate program. Our program offers our team members the ability to travel while contributing to the company’s success.
Leon Cheung, our People and Culture Coordinator at Modulex, is among these free-spirited individuals.
Leon embraces the digital nomad lifestyle, having worked in diverse countries like Mexico, Colombia, Brazil, Guatemala, Great Britain, Portugal, and Argentina. He understands that remote work offers incredible freedom and presents some challenges.
Here are some of his insights and tips for thriving as a digital nomad.
Tip 1: Stable Internet Connection
First and foremost, a reliable internet connection is non-negotiable. I always research and invest in backup options, whether a mobile hotspot or Wi-Fi at a co-working space. Coffee shops can be great for productivity, but I’m always careful about taking meetings in public spaces – unstable connections or background noise can hurt professionalism.
Tip 2: Timezone Awareness
Working from anywhere is encouraged as long as you finish the job, but time zones can be tricky. I make sure to stay in constant communication with my manager to coordinate meetings and collaboration. Being mindful of different time zones is key to keeping everything running smoothly.
Tip 3: Work-Life Balance
Balancing work and travel isn’t easy – it takes discipline, organization, and strong time-management skills. I remind myself that being a digital nomad isn’t a vacation; it’s a lifestyle. I’ve found that setting a routine and staying in one location for a week or two, instead of constantly moving, helps me avoid burnout and maintain a healthy balance.
Tip 4: Co-working Spaces
I’m a massive fan of co-working spaces. They provide a professional environment and reliable internet, which I need for productivity. It’s a great way to meet other digital nomads and network with teammates. My go-to spots are Selina, Outsite, and WeWork – each offers everything I need for a productive day.
Tip 5: Geographical Considerations
If I’m working from a different continent than my team, I always inform my manager beforehand. For example, when I was working for our Canadian office while being nomadic in Singapore, open communication was essential. Keeping everyone on the same page is important, as working across time zones can impact workflows.
Following these tips has helped Leon stay productive and enjoy the flexibility of being a digital nomad at Modulex.
